Caloia, owner of the popular Dairy Maid ice cream parlor on Utica Road in Fraser, was “part of Fraser,” said Woods. A former City Council member, Caloia donated her time and skills in recent years to the Fraser First Booster Club and its goal of building a barrier-free playground at McKinley Park.

“She and I worked together almost every day for four years,” said Vania Apps, Booster Club president. Caloia, a licensed practical nurse, served as secretary, and Anna Cameron is vice president.

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“We didn’t always agree on some things, but we always worked together,” Apps said about her friend. “She was so interested in this playground and so much wanted to see it done.”

Woods said Caloia “loved that park and put her heart and soul into it. She had this quality of relating to kids very well. She was passionate about it. She had a big heart and never asked for anything. She was always helping the Parks and Recreation Department.”

Apps recalled how Caloia and her late husband William, a Vietnam veteran, worked with young people at the Dairy Maid business, teaching them how to work with the public and also often-forgotten business skills such as counting change and looking people in the eye.

“It was a great opportunity for Fraser High School students,” Apps said.

Caloia also supported community fundraisers through Dairy Maid and was “generous with the percentage” of profits that she gave, according to Apps.

“The community has no idea of its loss (with Caloia’s death). She donated time and money constantly.

“She was loved in the community … a great person.,” said Apps.

Woods called Caloia a “strong, honest woman. She served as a role model for me.”

Sandy Caloia is survived by two children and two grandchildren. Visitation is 3-9 p.m. March 13 with rosary at 7 p.m. at Arthur J. VanLerberghe Funeral Home, 30600 Harper, St. Clair Shores. Funeral Mass is 10 a.m. March 14 at St. Joan of Arc Church, 21620 Greater Mack, in St. Clair Shores. For details, visit vanfuneral.com.